Tag Archives: planet

The “EN-V” (for Electric Networked Vehicle) is the futuristic electric car project designed by General Motors and Shanghai Automotive, for urban dwellers. It is based on the P.U.M.A concept in a partnership with Segway. Three prototypes (called Jiao (Pride), Miao (Magic) and Xiao (Laughter)) were presented in Shanghai last month. These vehicles are made of carbon fiber and equipped with two 3-kilowatt electric motors (one for each wheel), can reach a speed of 25 miles per hour and can be autonomous for some 25 miles. They use a GPS system and a “vehicle to vehicle” communication system that allows various “EN-V” users to interact, in order to avoid collisions. This project may be tested on university campuses before being introduced to the general public, sometime between 2020-2030!

Is Big Brother Japanese? According to this CNN documentary on facial recognition technology, what we saw in Minority Report is more Science Fact than Science Fiction! As long as this technology is only being used to sell toothpaste or lipstick, there is (relatively) little to worry about. However, highly advanced facial recognition technology can be used, for better or for worse, in so many different ways. Now more than ever, an ethical code for collecting personal data must be created.

Gary Chang, a Hong Kong based architect has ingeniously thought up a 14-room apartment within 330 square feet. Thanks to a system of modular walls that can be moved on wheels, this tiny space can become a kitchen, master bedroom, bathroom, living room and even screening room. Who said low-impact living meant deprivation?!

Seen on the blog “Fille de Pub”. For Earth Day, Axe Canada presents this “ecologically incorrect” idea: save water through communal showers. So remember, if you want to do something good for the planet: “Take action, take your clothes off!” 😉

The Page is a potential e-paper for the future, thought up by 3 design students. Upon logging in, you can fold the paper to whatever format you wish, and the articles will adapt themselves automatically to the new page layout. Will the iPad of the future be foldable?